CLAYTOR DAM RELEASE REDUCED TO AID IN NEW RIVER DROWNING SEARCH IN VIRGINIA

ROANOKE, Va., May 29, 2011 –   Appalachian Power, operator of the Claytor Hydroelectric Project on New River, has begun reducing outflow from its dam near Pulaski to aid the downriver search for a possible downing victim.

            Local authorities contacted the company today and asked that it reduce flow into the river to assist search teams near McCoy Falls, about two miles downstream.

            The company began reducing the outflow Sunday evening from about 4300 cubic feet per second (CFS) to a minimum required amount of 750 CFS.

            The reduction in outflow from the dam will lower water levels and reduce downstream velocity to assist recovery.

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